Sesame seed (Sesamum indicum) is one of Nigeria’s top non-oil agricultural export commodities. Widely used in food processing, confectionery, oil extraction, and pharmaceuticals, sesame seed enjoys strong and consistent global demand, making it a high-earning export product for Nigerian exporters.
What Is Sesame Seed and Why Is It Important?
Sesame seed is an oil-rich seed crop valued for its nutty flavor, high oil content, and nutritional benefits.
Key Uses of Sesame Seed
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Bakery and confectionery products
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Sesame oil production
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Tahini and hummus
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Health foods and supplements
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Pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries
Nutritional & Health Benefits
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Rich in healthy fats and protein
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High in calcium, iron, and magnesium
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Contains antioxidants (sesamin & sesamol)
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Supports heart health
Why Export Sesame Seed from Nigeria?
Nigeria’s Export Advantage
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Among Africa’s leading sesame seed producers
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Competitive pricing and high oil content
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Suitable climate across multiple regions
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Increasing acceptance in premium global markets
Nigeria is recognized globally for natural white and brown sesame seeds.
Major Sesame Seed Producing States in Nigeria
Sesame seed is widely cultivated in:
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Benue State
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Nasarawa State
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Taraba State
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Jigawa State
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Kano State
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Kebbi State
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Yobe State
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Niger State
Export Grades and Types of Sesame Seed
Natural White Sesame Seed
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High demand in Europe and Asia
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Used in bakery and oil extraction
Brown / Black Sesame Seed
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Preferred for oil extraction and traditional medicine
Hulled Sesame Seed
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Value-added product
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Used in confectionery and snacks
Quality Standards for Sesame Seed Export
International buyers require:
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Purity: ≥ 99%
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Moisture content: ≤ 6–8%
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Oil content: 48–52%
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Free from stones, sand, insects, and mould
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Uniform size and color
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Low free fatty acid (FFA) levels
Strict compliance is required for EU, Japan, and USA markets.
Packaging for Sesame Seed Export
Bulk Export Packaging
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Polypropylene (PP) bags (25kg–50kg)
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Jute bags with inner liners
Retail & Processed Packaging
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Vacuum-sealed bags
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Paper or foil packs
Labeling should include:
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Product name and grade
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Net weight
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Country of origin (Nigeria)
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Exporter details
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Batch/lot number
Export Documentation Required
To export sesame seed from Nigeria:
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CAC Registration Certificate
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NEPC Exporter Certificate
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NXP Form
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Phytosanitary Certificate (NAQS)
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Certificate of Origin
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Commercial Invoice
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Packing List
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Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
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Fumigation Certificate
Optional certifications:
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Organic certification
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HACCP
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ISO 22000
Step-by-Step Sesame Seed Export Process
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Register business with CAC and NEPC
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Source high-quality sesame seeds from farmers
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Clean, sort, and grade seeds
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Conduct laboratory testing
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Package according to buyer specifications
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Process export documents
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Ship and track cargo
Major Global Markets for Sesame Seed
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Asia: Japan, China, South Korea, India
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Middle East: UAE, Turkey, Israel
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Europe: Netherlands, Germany, France
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Africa: Egypt
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North America: USA, Canada
Japan and China are among the largest importers of Nigerian sesame seed.
Challenges in Sesame Seed Export
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High quality compliance standards
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Price volatility in global markets
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Contamination risks during storage
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Logistics and port delays
Tips for Successful Sesame Seed Export
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Focus on high-purity grades (99%+)
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Use proper drying and moisture control
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Work with certified cleaning facilities
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Lock in buyers with contracts
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Monitor international price trends
Conclusion
Sesame seed export from Nigeria remains a high-volume, high-value non-oil export opportunity. With the right quality control, packaging, and compliance, exporters can access lucrative global markets and build long-term trade relationships.
